You all know this watch. Nothing I can write here will likely change your feelings on it. Some are anxious to own one, and some are blatantly ignorant of its existence. It is of course, the 2018 Basel release Rolex Pepsi GMT Master 2 126710 BLRO, also known as simply “the Pepsi”.

When Rolex teased so elegantly its jubilee bracelet on their website before its official release, it lit the watch-web alight with speculation. Forums and chats were scrambling, what was it?! Could it be that Rolex would move ahead with another vintage inspired watch in their lineup? Adding to the hype machine that was, and still is, the Daytona?

I’ve been lucky enough to have been living with the Rolex Pepsi GMT since October 2018, and am privileged to share my thoughts with you.

First, let’s chat about the elephant in the room; the ceramic Pepsi bezel. I recognize that this is a polarizing subject. Some complain that the colours are too pastel, and I can agree with that. This watch can go from pink and purple in direct sunlight, to crimson red and navy blue in a dim room. It really has different personalities. It is also very difficult to photograph, which doesn’t help to quell the haters. It’s worth noting here, that even wearing sunglasses (unpolarized), can impact the palette of the bezel. I’m uncomfortable with the idea of wearing a pink/purple bezel, but when I see this watch with my own eyes, with no glasses on, and not through a camera lens, it really is stunning.

The Pepsi also received Rolex’s newest movement, the 3285. The big change here was an increase to 70 hrs power reserve. This really is a welcome improvement. I can now put down the watch on Friday night, and pick it up Monday morning knowing it will be on time and running. The increase in power reserve does come with some changes to the movement itself, which do effect the winding of the watch. This is not a very satisfying watch to wind, it must be said. It has a slightly gritty and hollow feel, which was off-putting at first, but I’ve grown used to it. Just different than previous GMT’s I’ve owned.

The Jubilee bracelet can feel a bit flashy at first, but once on the wrist, its easily forgotten as the comfort rating is so high. It’s easily the most comfortable watch bracelet I own. I’ve heard tale of people changing their bracelet to one procured from a Sub, and while I think that looks great, it really isn’t the same watch without its defining ‘5-link’ star.

This is a watch that I wear regularly, and it has aged with elegance. It does everything I need it to do, and nothing I don’t. Do mind that polished centre on the clasp though, it’s a scratch magnet!